Kini ang Kadayawan: A Festival Rooted in Culture and Abundance
Davao City is once again bursting into color this August for Kadayawan 2025, the country’s grandest celebration of culture, heritage, and harvest. Set to take place from August 8 to 17, the festival honors the city’s 11 ethnolinguistic tribes, the richness of its land, and the vibrant spirit of the Dabawenyo people.
This year’s theme is anchored on unity in diversity. The official logo showcases a staircase adorned with traditional patterns representing each of the 11 tribes. Waling-waling blooms, cacao pods, durian fruit, and the Philippine eagle are woven into the design, reminding everyone that Davao’s beauty lies in both tradition and abundance.
Kadayawan sa Davao/ Facebook
The Grand Kadayawan Weekend happens from August 15 to 17, with the city declaring August 15 a special non-working holiday under Proclamation No. 826 in celebration of Kadayawan and Indigenous People’s Day.
Key Dates to Remember
Photo from Kadayawan sa Davao/ Facebook
August 8: Festival Opening at Kadayawan Tribal Village
The celebration kicks off at Magsaysay Park, where the Kadayawan Tribal Village becomes a living museum of Davao’s indigenous traditions.
August 8–31: Kadayawan Trade Fair
Running daily from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m., this fair will showcase homegrown goods, delicacies, crafts, and cultural pieces by local entrepreneurs and artisans.
August 9: Hiyas sa Kadayawan Cultural Presentation
Meet the cultural ambassadors of the 11 tribes as they tell stories of their ancestry and traditions through dance, music, and attire.
August 9–17: Pananam sa Kadayawan
A daily food fair (8 a.m. to 9 p.m.) featuring traditional dishes prepared by members of Davao’s indigenous communities. It’s a culinary celebration not to be missed.
August 10–12: Bantawan Cultural Celebration
From 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Bantawan Amphitheater, Magsaysay Park becomes the stage for tribal performances: storytelling, chants, and rituals included.
August 14: Hiyas sa Kadayawan Grand Coronation Night
A night of cultural pride and pageantry, honoring young women who carry the traditions of their tribe with grace and dignity.
August 15: Agong ug Kulintangan
Experience traditional tribal music at Rizal Park from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m., featuring authentic performances of ancient instruments like the kulintang and agong.
August 17: Pamulak and Indak-Indak sa Kadayawan
The streets come alive with floral floats and dance contingents from across Mindanao. Pamulak (floral float parade) happens in the morning, followed by the highly anticipated Indak-Indak (street dancing showdown) in the evening.
New This Year: A Festival That’s Growing With Its People
This 2025, the festival puts a spotlight on cacao, a nod to Davao’s rising status as a world-class chocolate producer. Expect chocolate-themed booths and local makers presenting their best creations.
From the return of Agong ug Kulintangan to the celebration of tribal cuisine, Kadayawan 2025 goes beyond the street parades. It’s a reminder that Davao’s culture isn’t just preserved, it’s thriving.
Attending Kadayawan? Here’s What to Know
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The full calendar and guidelines for Pamulak and Indak-Indak are posted on the official Kadayawan Festival Facebook page.
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Expect tight security and ordinance enforcement. The Anti-Smoking Ordinance, Liquor Ban, and other public safety regulations will be strictly implemented.
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Book your accommodations and flights early. Kadayawan season is peak season in Davao.
More Than a Festival, It’s a Homecoming
Whether you’re a local, a balikbayan, or a curious visitor, Kadayawan is a chance to return to your roots, or discover them for the first time. It’s a celebration of everything that makes Davao City different: the music, the flavors, the languages, and the deep pride of its people.
ALSO READ: Discover More of Davao: Hidden Gems to Visit with GrabCar Travel Guide
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